DOMINICAN REPUBLIC OVERVIEW

Explore the Dominican Republic

The development of luxury real estate in the Dominican Republic is moving along at a rapid pace. A number of expansions offering luxury homes are in various stages of planning and completion. One development that illustrates the growth in the Dominican is Roco Ki. This new retreat is located on 2,700 acres of the Dominican’s eastern shore, boasts 3.5 miles of pristine beach front, and is accessible by a brand new major highway. The booming luxury home market and updated infrastructure serve as examples of the long progression the Dominican Republic has made through its centuries-old history.

Despite being on one of only two Caribbean islands split into two nations, the Dominican Republic stands alone as the country with the most extensive historical record in the western hemisphere. It was first settled between 4000 and 1000 BC and, centuries later, was home to several firsts in the Americas; including the first permanent settlement, cathedral, university and European-built road. The country’s capital city of Santo Domingo was also recognized as the first colonial capital of the New World.

After finally becoming an independent nation in 1844, the Dominican Republic experienced many decades of war and political disorder. The country remains hotly contested politically today, with major elections being held every two years. One thing that cannot be questioned in any forum, however, is the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic. Its landscape includes the Caribbean’s highest peak (Pico Duarte) and largest lake (Lake Enriquillo). The backdrop of high mountains and large valleys amid the bright sun and miles of sandy beaches mirrors the country’s eclectic influences.

More and more travelers are discovering this beautiful scenery and rich heritage. 3.5 million people visited the Dominican Republic in 2004, accounting for 29-percent of total Caribbean tourists. The growing number of explorers has many vacation options in six major regions. The North Coast region is home to state-of-the-art luxury lodgings and a variety of chic nightlife options amid lush forests and rugged mountains. In contrast, the North East Coast celebrates its natural beaches, coral reefs and mountain waterfalls by leaving them largely unspoiled.

Tourists aren’t the only ones taking notice of the Dominican Republic. Americans interested in acquiring luxury real estate for primary, holiday, or retirement homes are flocking to the Dominican for its tax advantages and the high quality of life offered in an ideal setting.